PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP is expanding its offering for lovers of exclusive sailing. This strategy comes to life with the launch of the new commercial brand, PONANT YACHTING, which showcases the Group’s expertise in crafting ultra-intimate experiences, combining sailing, sophistication and bespoke service. PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP is also adding to its fleet with the order of a new catamaran, the Spirit of Ponant II. Built by Lagoon, the world leader in sailing catamarans, the vessel will join the fleet in late 2026. She will be based in French Polynesia.
“With the acquisition of the Spirit of Ponant II, the 22nd ship in the fleet, we are expanding our offering in the luxury sailing segment for intimate, sophisticated and responsible voyages. We are developing a unique world, where each experience is tailor-made: itineraries, gastronomy, excursions and more”, confirmed Hervé Gastinel, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP’s CEO. “This strategy is also embodied in the launch of our new brand, PONANT YACHTING, which combines the intimate experience of sailing with the sophisticated and personalised services of PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP voyages. This strengthens our unique portfolio of brands in the cruise industry.”
PONANT YACHTING, a New Travel Experience
In 2024, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP has chosen to innovate by launching a new range of tailor-made sea voyages aboard luxury catamarans. With the success of the Spirit of Ponant confirming the relevance of this vision, the Group is continuing to develop this new market segment, which targets a more family-oriented customer base and also groups of friends.
A crew of 4 (captain, first mate, chef, hostess) offers guests the excellence of the PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP service in an all-inclusive experience: exclusive itineraries, personalised activities, refined gastronomy, a selection of wines & cocktails, bespoke menus, and a wide range of nautical activities (stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, water skiing, wing foiling, Tiwal sailing, Sublue diving).
By late 2026, PONANT YACHTING will operate a fleet of 3 catamarans, the Spirit of Ponant, La Désirade and the Spirit of Ponant II, each with a capacity of 9 to 12 guests. These offer an exceptional sailing experience and access to secluded anchorages. The destinations on offer – from the Mediterranean, the Seychelles, the Caribbean and Polynesia – are particularly well suited to exploration under sail.
A Partnership of Excellence Between French Companies
Built in France, the Spirit of Ponant II is part of the new Lagoon EIGHTY 2 series, a model combining contemporary design and exceptional comfort. Her operations will be supported by Sailoé’s expertise in all the destinations offered. This project strengthens the partnership between PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, Lagoon, the Bénéteau Group and Sailoé, united by a passion for sailing and a pioneering commitment to more sustainable tourism and French-style excellence.
The Spirit of Ponant II is a catamaran in the brand-new Lagoon EIGHTY 2 series, a top-of-the-range yacht measuring 24.97m long and 11m wide.
Accommodating up to 10 guests, she features 5 double staterooms and 427 m² of living space. She will be available exclusively for full private charter, from €64,000 (excluding flights and variable costs – mainly fuel, dining and drinks).
The maiden voyage will take place in late 2026, sailing to Polynesia, a destination where PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP’s expertise is widely recognised. Itineraries are tailored to guests’ wishes and adjusted according to the weather conditions at the time of travel.
